Scaling With People

Theresia, an entrepreneur who's seen the zenith of success and the nadirs of struggle, joins the conversation, spilling the secrets that transformed her business journey. Boots strapped and hands on the wheel, she navigated the treacherous roads of scaling a business, and now she's here to guide you through the same paths—minus the pitfalls. Our candid talk peels back the layers of leadership evolution and strategic delegation, as Theresia recounts her personal saga of balancing the tightrope between business growth and family life. Discover how the art of hiring the right roles, like an Executive Assistant and Operations personnel, can not only amplify your company's growth but also refine your team's synergy.

We weave through the emotional fabric that stitches together the life of a CEO, understanding that personal relationships and a compassionate work culture are as crucial as any business strategy. The narrative unfolds to reveal the often unspoken emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, from battling burnout to managing time with finesse. Theresia and I dissect the importance of support systems, ranging from mentoring to therapy, which aid in weathering the isolation that comes with the CEO territory. Tune in for a heart-to-heart exchange that promises to enrich your entrepreneurial mindset and challenge the conventional blueprint of business success.

Connect with Theresia:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/tag4hr

Have you ever grappled with the challenge of building trust in your team or wondered how the nuances of feedback can shape your leadership style? Join us as we sit with Limor Bergman Gross, delving into the intricate ballet of coaching and communication that can make or break the dynamics of a team. Our candid conversation uncovers how misalignments in communication can lead to conflict, and we bring to light the transformative power of aligning team goals with individual values. Discover the underestimated value of personality assessments, not as mere corporate tools but as the keys to understanding and navigating the complexities of your team's interpersonal relationships.

Navigating the transition from a technical expert to a leader is akin to changing gears mid-drive—smooth for some, jarring for others. We address this head-on, sharing personal stories and insights on the real-world implications of leadership without adequate training. From the subtleties of feedback to setting clear expectations, we dissect what it really takes to create a safe space where feedback fuels growth. Reflect with us on the pivotal role of effective communication in shaping the trajectory of both individual careers and entire teams, and learn strategies to help technically-minded individuals steer towards successful leadership roles.

As the workplace continues to evolve, understanding cultural perspectives in a remote setting becomes a cornerstone of effective collaboration. We wrap up our enriching discussion with Amar, whose experiences offer a deep dive into the importance of patience and the deliberate effort required to build bridges across cultural divides in remote work environments. Whether you're a seasoned manager or an emerging leader, this episode is packed with actionable insights that will equip you to better understand your team, foster a culture of growth and communication, and lead with confidence in today's global marketplace.

Connect with Limor:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/limorbergman/ https://www.instagram.com/limorbergman
https://www.youtube.com/c/LimorBergman

Discover the transformative power of purpose with our special guest, James M Rink, as we uncover the secret sauce to both explosive business growth and personal fulfillment. This episode isn't just another business strategy session; it's a profound exploration into the heart of what drives success and satisfaction in all aspects of life. We delve into the essence of purposeful living with James, drawing on his vast experience in television and entertainment to reveal how a strong foundational purpose can spark commitment and reduce risks for startups. Get ready to be inspired by stories like Walt Disney's and learn why having a 'Purpose of you' could be the game-changer you're looking for in your career.

In the wake of COVID-19, the conversation turns to the challenges of workforce engagement and mental health, areas where a sense of purpose proves to be more crucial than ever. We discuss the unique needs of younger workers and the power of HR strategies that cater to the emotional drivers of employees, ensuring a thriving company culture. As our chat with James draws to a close, we reflect on the invaluable insights shared and extend a warm thank you to him and you, our dedicated listeners. This episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to infuse their company or personal life with a renewed sense of purpose and direction.

 Connect with James: PurposeOfYou.com

Embark on a journey through the labyrinth of marketing and technology with Vivek, a tech wizard whose insights into digital solution snafus are nothing short of transformative. Discover the strategies that will equip you with the savvy to pick the perfect tech partner, ensuring your website, app, or digital project not only matches but exceeds your visionary expectations. We wade into the merits of platforms like Clutch for sourcing vetted expertise and underscore the triumph of clear communication in steering your development team toward success. Vivek's expertise shines as we unravel the art of not going at it alone while tackling the intertwined worlds of tech and marketing.

Crack the code of startup culture where trust and strategic hiring are the bedrock of burgeoning businesses. In conversation with Vivek, we illuminate the power of a team in tune with your vision: a force capable of managing clients and operational tasks, freeing you to zero in on the horizon of long-term achievements. As your startup scales, understand the delicate dance of melding the loyalty of your core team with the fresh perspectives of new talent, especially post-Series C funding. We explore the evolving dynamics of relationship building and expectation management through each phase of growth, all the way to post-IPO pressures, painting a roadmap for founders ready to lead their ventures to new heights.

 Connect with Vivek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivek-raina15/

Unlock the potential of fintech payments and revenue strategies that can redefine your business model with the guidance of industry veteran Ashley Isenberg, who joins us to impart her twenty years of wisdom. As we navigate the transformation of payment processing, we're not only unearthing how to enhance customer experiences but also converting financial operations from cost burdens to profitable assets. Every entrepreneur, whether you're at the helm of a cozy cafe or an expansive online marketplace, will discover actionable insights on embedding payment systems that work seamlessly with your business's heartbeat.

Together with Ashley, we dissect the essential factors to consider when choosing and implementing payment solutions, from customer onboarding synchronization to strategic vendor partnerships. We tackle the tough questions that business leaders face, like when to evolve in-house payment capabilities, and the sometimes daunting regulatory maze. I also get personal, sharing my journey as a founder and the critical lessons of embracing expertise rather than going it alone—because let's face it, juggling every aspect of a growing business is a Herculean task. For those looking to navigate the complex yet lucrative world of payment integration, this episode is your roadmap to success.

 Connect with Ashley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-isenberg/

Embark on a transformative journey with Dan Fantasia, CEO of Treeline Incorporated, as we uncover the secrets to evolving a sales organization into a dynamic engine of growth. Get ready to grasp the art of perfect timing and strategy for assembling a sales team that's destined to excel. Dan brings to the table a treasure trove of insights on transitioning from solo sales efforts to a formidable sales force, while also throwing light on the crucial role of a specialized recruiting firm in fishing out the crème de la crème of sales talent. Avoid the common snares that trip up so many in the hiring process and learn how to lure in candidates who resonate with your company's core value proposition, setting the stage for mutual triumph.

This episode is a deep dive into what it takes to scale a business from the tens to the hundreds of millions, with a focus on the vital shift from CEO-led sales to a more intricate and scalable team structure. Discover how hiring the right leaders, like a VP or CRO, can redefine your strategy and anchor your company's sales ship as you navigate the waters from mid-market to enterprise sales. Dan and I also explore the underestimated power of contingency recruitment services, showing how a professional team can expedite the hunt for top-tier talent, saving precious time and driving revenue at breakneck speed. Join us for an insightful session brimming with strategies and actionable takeaways to construct a sales organization that's not just poised for present-day challenges but is also geared up for future conquests.


Connect with Dan:

Website: www.treelineinc.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danfantasia/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanFantasia   
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TreelineInc

Discover the future of hiring as we sit down with Tommie Edwards, the visionary CEO of Tech 1M, to dive into how AI is revolutionizing recruitment and talent acquisition. Imagine a world where crafting the perfect job description or sifting through piles of resumes is no longer the bane of HR's existence. That's the promise of AI in the hiring sector, and Tommie gives us the insider's tour, showcasing how machine learning isn't just about efficiency—it's reshaping how we approach performance reviews and retention, catering to the evolving desires of the workforce.

Ever wondered how tapping into your social network could land you the next all-star employee? We've got the lowdown on why your connections might be your best resource in the hunt for top talent. I'll share my own mathematical slant on starting job descriptions from scratch and how AI is a game-changer in this daunting task. Plus, we dissect the power of niche social groups and personal networks in elevating recruitment strategies beyond the traditional job boards, revealing a path to more strategic, quality-focused hiring.

Rounding out our discussion, Tommie and I tackle the concept of 'borderless hiring' and its sweeping benefits for startups and legacy companies alike. We spotlight cutting-edge platforms like Deel and Remote that are paving the way for a seamless global talent search. Get ready to be inspired by the potential to build dynamic, lean teams across the globe, as Tech 1M leads the charge in this bold new era of remote employment. Join us for a refreshing take on the future of work where geography is no barrier to snagging the brightest minds out there.

Connect with Tommie:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommieedwards/
Website: https://tommieedwards.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/imtommieedwards
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tommieedwards/
Podcast: https://tommieedwards.com/#podcast

Embark on a transformative journey with the masterful Lara Schmoisman, who reveals how her unexpected leap from soap opera production to running a top-tier marketing agency in the U.S. became a reality. Her wisdom unveils the delicate dance of integrating branding with impactful performance marketing, and the artistry required to sculpt a systematic approach for a flourishing business. As Lara shares her story, listeners will be treated to a treasure trove of insights on nurturing professional growth without sacrificing precious family time.

Picture the relief of a CEO who's just discovered the secret to magnifying their strategic vision by empowering a director of operations to sift through the daily grind. Lara and I dissect the game-changing impact of project managers who anchor client relationships, and the caution against overextending in networking circles. This episode is a blueprint for those who seek to enhance their delegation skills and master time management, transforming their business practices into a well-oiled machine that champions efficiency.

As the conversation sails into the world of entrepreneurship, we anchor on the critical importance of aligning every tick of the clock with our deepest business priorities and setting aside the rest. Dive into the culture of a virtual team, where initiatives like 'Raise the Bar' shine a spotlight on outstanding performances, fostering a community of recognition and respect. And for the trailblazing CEOs and founders, Lara imparts her expert guidance on leaving history's weight behind, conducting strategic brand analysis, and designing marketing strategies that resonate with any budget – a toolkit for genuine, sustainable growth.

Connect with Lara: 
Website: https://laraschmoisman.com/ 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laraschmoisman/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laraschmoisman/
Podcast: https://laraschmoisman.com/podcast/ 

Embark on a journey with the financial virtuoso Rey Del Valle, whose expertise has graced the halls of powerhouses like FedEx and Disney, as he now champions the financial fortitude of companies in his role as an interim CFO. With a candidness that's as refreshing as it is enlightening, Ray unpacks the turbulent transition from corporate giant to the agility of consulting, a leap prompted by a personal family crisis. He shares his profound insights into the core struggles faced by CEOs whose finance teams lag behind the rapid sprint of business growth, highlighting how vital it is to have a transparent financial lens and sharp operational insights. Lending an intimate touch, Ray also recounts the adrenaline-fueled origin of his nickname "Crash", born from his passion for mountain biking and perhaps a metaphor for the financial risks he navigates with such finesse.

Amidst the intricate financial web startups must weave to flourish, Ray sheds light on the pivotal elements that pave the way to IPOs and draw investors. Touching on the art of storytelling in the business context, he emphasizes the crafting of a narrative that resonates with potential backers, supported by grounded projections and a solid financial framework. Ray advocates for the evolution beyond the confines of Excel, urging the adoption of advanced accounting systems and cloud-based solutions to ensure scalability and stability. A testament to his wealth of experience, Ray makes the case for infusing Fortune 50 wisdom into burgeoning businesses, underscoring the decisive impact of timely financial reporting, diligent budgeting, and sharp KPI analysis. This episode is a treasure trove of strategic acumen, guiding startup founders and finance enthusiasts towards cultivating a robust financial ecosystem primed for the journey ahead.

 Connect with Rey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reydelvalle/

Ever wondered what it takes to leap from the safety of a 9-to-5 into the exhilarating world of entrepreneurship? Tiana Sanchez, the trailblazing CEO and founder of Tiana Sanchez International, joins us to unravel her extraordinary transition from a young manager slinging hot dogs to spearheading a company that champions leadership development. Grapple with Tiana as she opens the playbook on surmounting the economic downturn of 2011 to establish a thriving business, armed with nothing but a relentless spirit, savvy investment strategies, and the wisdom of mentors like her grandmother and leadership luminary, Ken Blanchard.

Embark on a personal odyssey that defies the odds, as Tiana recounts the setbacks that sparked her literary journey, crafting "Undefeatable" and the collaborative success "F'd Up: The Upside of Failure". Dive into the heart of Tiana's philosophy on finding and forging your unique path, embracing failures as stepping stones, and harnessing the power of writing to pivot and prosper. She illuminates the pivotal role of authentic passion and agility in charting a course in leadership and management consulting, ensuring that her expertise is not just her profession, but her calling.

The roadmap to business triumph demands more than just passion—it's paved with the knowledge gleaned from those who've navigated the terrain before us. Tiana's candid reflections offer a treasure trove of actionable insights, emphasizing the invaluable role of mentorship and real-world wisdom over textbook theory. Her journey stands as a testament to the untapped potential that lies in every aspiring entrepreneur, a beacon guiding you through the tumultuous waters of business ownership with clarity, conviction, and a dash of inspiration. Join us as we uncover the keys to a resilient entrepreneurial mindset, learning how to turn passion into profit and setbacks into success.

Ever dreamt of starting your own business but felt entangled in the legalities? Join us as we decode the maze of business structuring with attorney Bethany Corbin. Bethany, an expert in guiding startups through legal hurdles, helps us understand the intricacies of business structures, from sole proprietorships to corporations. Listen in as she walks us through the pros and cons of each, and how choosing the right one can make all the difference to your business journey. Whether you’re on the path to a venture capital investment or just running a side hustle, Bethany’s insights are invaluable.

And it doesn’t stop there! We also delve into the importance of trademarks, website legalities, and cybersecurity. Hear the story of a client who had to shell out a fortune for rebranding, all because they missed out on trademarking their name. Not just that, Bethany also emphasizes the significance of your website’s privacy policy, and the potential pitfalls of copying from competitors. Plus, we discover the critical role of cybersecurity in today’s digital age and the importance of having legal involved in your marketing strategies. A thrilling ride, this episode is packed with all the legal advice you need to kickstart or revamp your business!

Connect with Bethany:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethanycorbin/  https://www.instagram.com/femtechlawyer/
https://twitter.com/femtechlawyer

Ever wonder what it’s really like to scale a startup? We're here to share some enlightening tales from the trenches with Chris and Lynn, founders of Inspire. Their entrepreneurial journey is packed with lessons on culture fit, performance-based hiring, continuous learning and leadership development. They have pearls of wisdom to share about the perfect hiring blend of seasoned professionals and those with an entrepreneurial spirit. If you're a founder looking to grow your business and create a thriving work culture, you won't want to miss this!

The insights don’t stop there! We also delve into personality assessments' impact on team dynamics, discussing popular tools like Myers Briggs and DISC assessments. Find out how these tools can boost your hiring processes, strengthen team cohesion, and lead to a robust understanding of your coworkers. We introduce you to our very own performance management tool, Inspire. It's designed to facilitate continuous performance conversations and adapt leadership styles to individual development levels. Plus, we explore our creative blunders - including our use of chat GBT for creating Christmas cards - and the invaluable lessons we've taken away from them. Join us for these compelling stories and actionable insights!

Connect with Chris and Lynn: https://www.hci.org/

Get ready to unlock the secrets of quick, efficient software scalability with our guest for the day - Brian Childress, a seasoned fractional CTO. Brian's insights on avoiding the pitfalls of over-engineering and mastering the art of simplicity in software systems are invaluable. With a no-nonsense approach, we break down the concept of scalability into three digestible aspects: adding more users, adding new features, and bringing in more developers. Brace yourselves for a deep-dive into the art of striking the perfect balance between functionality and scalability, implemented wisely without drowning in complexity.

Our conversation doesn't end there. We pivot towards the role of AI in startups, its undeniable potential, and how it can be a game-changer across various industries. Does understanding customer requests feel like deciphering hieroglyphics? Fear not, we've got you covered on how to interpret them and validate your ideas effectively. As a cherry on top, Brian reminds all CEOs and founders to trust their instincts and maintain focus on the core business, a mantra to live by! Don't miss out if you want to simplify your life while on the journey of building your business!


 Connect with Brian:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-childress/

Imagine being able to unlock a treasure chest of opportunities for your small business without having to compete with large corporations. What if we told you that there's a path that can lead you straight to this treasure? That's right, folks! The government contracting market is a veritable goldmine and we're here to guide you through this labyrinth. With our special guest, retired USAF acquisition officer Ricky Howard, we'll show you how to tap into the government's mandate to purchase a certain percentage from small businesses. We'll help you figure out whether your business has what the government is looking to buy.

Delving into the government contracting process can feel overwhelming, but with the right knowledge and resources, it's a journey you can confidently embark on. However, don't take our word for it, tune in and hear all about it from expert Ricky Howard. From conducting a Go-No-Go analysis to learning how to navigate the compliance matrix, we've got you covered. We'll also be discussing the differences between being a prime contractor and a subcontractor, helping you to find the best fit for your business.

And if you thought that was all, think again! As we wrap up this enlightening episode, we’ll share some fail-proof strategies that can increase your chances of winning your first government contract. Be it preparing for a long timeline, building relationships with government offices, or exploring the advantages of subcontracting, we'll guide you every step of the way. So, tune in and take the first step towards expanding your business reach into the government market. We promise you, it's a journey you'll never forget.


 Connect with Ricky:
 https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickychoward/
https://www.dodcontract.com/
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dod-contract-academy/id1566870206

Are you ready to be enlightened on how AI can ethically revolutionize your marketing strategies? Brace yourself for a riveting conversation with our esteemed guest, Pamela Wilson, the CMO of Dental Claim Support. Pamela takes us behind the scenes, showcasing how her team leverages AI tools in content creation, and the unique approach of using AI-generated snippets to craft the initial drafts of their blog posts. Delve into her insights on directing AI with clear roles and goals while upholding ethical standards.

The episode isn't just about AI, though. It's a comprehensive guide on establishing consistent messaging within expanding businesses and setting the right tone for your online presence. We discuss the importance of threading a seamless experience for customers from the initial sales process to maintaining long-term relationships. For all the entrepreneurs out there, we have some savvy advice to build a simple, yet engaging website. The cherry on top is the advice from Pamela herself on the necessity of an online presence and the benefits of having a longer online history for search engine credibility. So buckle up and prepare to turbocharge your business and online presence with this power-packed episode.

 Connect with Pamela:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamelaiwilson/ https://www.pamelawilson.com/blog/

Ready to revolutionize the way you view efficiency and scale your business? Brace yourself for an enlightening conversation with Samuel Drauschak, co-founder and chief proxies scientist at Truvle. His unique insights on process science and strategic application through the TruvleMapping Language are transforming the employer-employee dynamic and reinventing business growth strategies. Samuel's pioneering journey, coupled with his invaluable teachings, will inspire entrepreneurs to grasp their processes and systems, creating sustainable value for their workforce.

Our riveting discussion with Samuel doesn't stop there. We delve deeper into the mechanics of efficiency and the role of technology in process exploration. Discover the potential of understanding and controlling the cost of a process to make informed decisions about headcount, automation, and technology. Samuel shreds popular misconceptions, arguing that structured processes indeed lead to adaptability and agility. He also emphasizes the importance of documenting and engaging with processes to enhance efficiency and sustainability. Regardless of where you are in your business journey, Samuel's wisdom will equip you with tools to control cost while scaling your operations. Get set for a knowledge-packed episode that could be a game-changer for your business.
 
 Connect with Samuel:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/samdrauschak/

Have you ever wondered what it takes to shift from a high-ranking corporate role to starting your own entrepreneurial journey? Our latest guest, Joy, a business consultant, leadership trainer, and coach, took that leap and is here to share her insights. Her story takes us from her beginnings as a COO in corporate America to her current role as a solopreneur, highlighting the importance of self-reflection, strategic planning, and the golden nuggets of advice she has gathered along the way.

Leadership is a key theme in our chat with Joy, who shares how she infuses joy into her work and helps executives create high-performing, vibrant workplace cultures. We delve into the dynamics of motivation, employee engagement and self-accountability, and how trust, autonomy and delegation can be powerful tools in these areas. The conversation also touches on the critical role of purpose in the workplace, and how it fuels intrinsic motivation.

As the discussion moves forward, we uncover the art of delegation, the need for growth opportunities, and the value of making mistakes. Joy elaborates on the process of transitioning from a solopreneur to an entrepreneur, emphasizing the need to understand customer needs profoundly. We explore the importance of partner leadership in business success and how tools like predictive index and other assessments can provide valuable insights into team dynamics. To wrap up, Joy introduces her five-minute 'Leadership Compass' quiz, a valuable tool to help leaders understand their own leadership styles. This conversation promises to inspire, educate and provide you with a fresh perspective on leadership and entrepreneurship. Enjoy!

 Connect with Joy:
https://www.instagram.com/joy.leads
http://www.linkedin.com/in/joymeserve

Imagine having an AI sidekick that augments your human capabilities, automates complex tasks, and skyrockets your business productivity. Sounds intriguing, right? Well, you're about to hear from a man who can help turn this futuristic vision into reality. Join us as we converse with Dave Sobel, the host of Business of Tech podcast and an authority in technology services delivery. Dave enlightens us on the powerful impact of AI in the business landscape, highlighting its potential to revolutionize operations and performance. But as with all things powerful, AI comes with its own set of implications and risks. Listen in as we navigate through these challenges, preparing you to harness AI’s power responsibly.

But wait, there's more! We're not just talking AI here. Dave dishes out actionable advice on how businesses, particularly mid-tier performers, can use technology to their advantage. From outsourcing IT needs to a managed service provider, to investing in solid backup and security measures, Dave shares insights that could be your ticket to business success. And of course, we get a taste of the invaluable insights Dave delivers on his Business of Tech podcast. This conversation is packed with information that could help you stay ahead in the ever-evolving tech landscape. So, tune in and get ready to power up your business with technology.

Ever wished you knew the secret to fostering diversity and inclusivity in the workplace? You're about to discover it in my conversation with the dynamic Raven O'Neal, founder of SAPI GAL. She shared her wealth of knowledge on how to bring in the right mix of skills and thought diversity, the significance of having clear company goals, and the enrichment that different voices bring to a business.

You think you know how to recruit and hire? Think again. We delve into the complexities of the recruitment process, addressing the gender bias and the unique motivations driving men and women's career choices. Raven provides intriguing insights on leveraging technology in recruitment and the essence of asking job-specific questions.

Our dialogue wraps up with an enlightening discussion on work-life balance, empathic leadership, and the magic of trusting your intuition during hiring. Raven expounds on the importance of setting boundaries, especially for the younger workforce, and how this is reshaping the startup landscape. We also look at data supporting the idea that women are more empathic leaders and conclude with the benefits of diversity and inclusivity. Join us in this enlightening episode filled with actionable advice on creating a thriving work culture.

 Connect with Raven:
https://www.instagram.com/thatsavvygal/
https://www.facebook.com/thatsavvygal/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravenoneal/

Get ready to explore a real estate revolution in our exclusive chat with Will Tober, senior VP at Hughes-Marino. Get insider insights on how the pandemic has not only shook up the commercial real estate market but also opened up new, exciting opportunities for tenants, especially high-growth and venture-backed companies. Will sheds light on how the shift to remote and hybrid work culture directly impacts the supply and inventory of commercial office space.

We're not just talking real estate here; Will takes us through the art of creating the perfect office space. From meticulous space planning, efficient furniture sourcing to managing construction – Hughes-Marino’s range of services is designed to navigate the complex world of office space creation. As companies scramble to compete with the convenience of work-from-home, we examine the trend of transforming offices into amenity-rich spaces and the unique design trends in vogue post-pandemic.

Dive into the debate of flexibility versus price per square foot in office spaces, and how plug-and-play solutions are becoming the game-changer for businesses. Will makes a strong case for the benefits of shared spaces, potential networking opportunities they hold and how asking the right questions can lead to your ideal office space. Will's expertise in commercial leasing, especially around flexibility and plug-and-play solutions, can potentially revolutionize your workspace. Take a seat and join us on this enlightening journey exploring the future of commercial real estate in our post-pandemic world.

Connect with Will: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willtober/